FOUNDATION DEGREE IN ENGINEERING SYSTEMS

FOUNDATION DEGREE IN ENGINEERING SYSTEMS PROGRAMME SPECIFICATION GENERAL INFORMATION Awarding Institution/Body: Teaching Institution: Validated/franchised: Programme accredited by: (inc. date of accreditation) Programme approved by: (inc. date & min. no. of Dept, BoS, QAC, Senate) Interim Award: Final Award: Programme Title: UCAS Code (if applicable): Subject Benchmark Statement: Intended level of completed programme: (in line with FHEQ) Duration of programme and mode of study: Date of Specification preparation/ revision: Applicable to cohort: University of Bath Partner Institution Franchised Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) 24 November 2010 Programme Approval Panel: 15 th May 2007 Certificate of Higher Education Foundation Degree (FdSc) Foundation Degree in Engineering Systems HH37 QAA Foundation Degree Qualification Benchmark Intermediate, Level I 2 Years Full-time 3 Years Part-time August 2011 Full Time 2011/12 cohort Part-Time 2011/12 cohort Page 1 of 14

SYNOPSIS AND ACADEMIC COHERENCE OF THE PROGRAMME: Foundation Degrees are vocationally focused awards introduced to provide practical work-based courses that will allow successful graduates to make an immediate contribution in the workplace or to progress to the Work-based Honours degree (validated by the University of Bath). The Foundation Degree in Engineering Systems is designed to prepare students for a variety of careers across the Manufacturing and Production Engineering industry through the provision of core and specialised units. The course aims to equip students with practical and professional abilities in specific areas, as well as providing a broad range of analysis, design and implementation skills. The Foundation Degree in Engineering Systems has been designed in collaboration with employers including BMW and other industry experts The course can be studied either full-time over two years or part-time over three years EDUCATIONAL AIMS OF THE PROGRAMME: The Foundation Degree in Engineering Systems is designed to meet the following aims: to provide students with the knowledge and understanding of how manufactured systems and processes are planned, monitored and controlled with the use of manual and computer-based methods and procedures to develop student s understanding of engineering design for manufacture, manufacturing processes and advanced manufacturing technologies to develop students understanding of health and safety, risk management and supply chain management and how these impact on and contribute to successful manufacturing to ensure students have the appropriate knowledge and understanding of commercial factors such as quality assurance, value management and business improvement techniques as applied to competitive and cost advantages to provide an appropriate understanding of the properties, selection, processing and use of materials to ensure students have advanced knowledge and skills in the management of materials in the manufacturing sector to equip students with the essential skills that will allow them to critically analyse their own performance and reflect on areas for improvement INTENDED LEARNING OUTCOMES, TEACHING. LEARNING AND ASSESSMENT METHODS (specifying those applicable for interim awards where appropriate): On successful completion of the Certificate of Higher Education it is expected that the student will be able to: Knowledge and understanding: demonstrate knowledge and critical understanding of established principles, concepts and theories underpinning manufacturing engineering technologies Page 2 of 14

demonstrate the ability to evaluate different approaches to solving problems and apply these in a work context apply appropriate numerical methods to solve technical problems demonstrate knowledge of the characteristics of particular materials, equipment, processes and products practical laboratory experiments report practical activity completion presentation report writing Intellectual Skills: demonstrate the ability to apply underlying concepts and principles and apply them in a work context apply appropriate quantitative science and engineering tools to the analysis of problems practical laboratory experiments report practical activity completion presentation report writing Professional Practical Skills: demonstrate application in the workplace of a range of practical skills learnt throughout the programme demonstrate analytical thinking skills in relation to problem solving to achieve a desired outcome Page 3 of 14

practical laboratory experiments report practical activity completion presentation report writing Transferable/Key Skills: demonstrate responsibility for their own learning and development in relation to the organisational objectives demonstrate effective participation in self management activities to achieve organisational objectives identify and solve routine problems select, retrieve and respond to references, information and resources from a variety of sources practical Laboratory experiments report practical activity completion presentation report writing On successful completion of the Foundation Degree in Engineering Systems it is expected that the student will be able to: Knowledge and understanding: demonstrate knowledge and critical understanding of established principles, concepts and theories underpinning manufacturing engineering technology and the way in which these have developed identify the main methods of enquiry in manufacturing engineering technology demonstrate the ability to evaluate critically the appropriateness of different approaches to solving problems and apply these in a work context Page 4 of 14

justify and evaluate appropriate numerical methods to solve technical problems demonstrate an appreciation of the social, environmental, ethical, economic and commercial considerations affecting the exercise of their engineering judgement practical assignment Intellectual Skills: demonstrate the ability to apply underlying concepts and principles outside the context in which they were first studied and apply them in a work context demonstrate creative and innovative ability in the synthesis of solutions and in formulating designs critically evaluate their own work and that of others practical assignment Professional Practical Skills: demonstrate application in the workplace of a range of practical skills learnt throughout the programme and apply in different context and evaluate their effectiveness demonstrate analytical thinking skills in relation to problem solving and working with others through interpersonal skills to achieve a desired outcome practical assignment Page 5 of 14

Transferable/Key Skills: These will fall into five main areas: 1. Self-management and personal development. Students will demonstrate the ability to: manage and organise their roles and work practices with integrity and self-reliance identify and solve routine and non-routine problems adapt to changing situations, contexts and environments 2. Critical Awareness Students will demonstrate the ability to: analyse information and experience in order to formulate independent judgements and articulate reasoned arguments through reflection, review and evaluation form appropriate and reasoned responses to the critical judgements of others identify personal strengths and weaknesses 3. Interpersonal Skills Students will demonstrate the ability to: interact effectively with individuals and groups, including the ability to negotiate, collaborate and initiate collective action respect the opinions, values and attitudes of others 4. Communication Skills Students will demonstrate the ability to: present ideas and work to others effectively and in a range of situations articulate ideas and information in written, oral, physical and visual forms 5. Information Skills Students will demonstrate the ability to: select, manipulate and employ communication systems, sources and information technologies manage, select, retrieve, evaluate and respond to references, information and resources from a variety of sources Page 6 of 14

practical assignment Teaching and Learning Methods will include: The knowledge, understanding and skills associated with this Foundation Degree will be delivered through a diverse and innovative range of methods to support students towards achieving the learning outcomes and will reflect the diversity of the learners needs. This will include lectures and active learning through the use of practicals, seminars, presentations, discussions, case studies, tutorials, laboratory sessions, audiovisual presentations, IT, private study in the learning resource centre, projects and as the programme develops the use of e- learning. In addition the internet and Virtual Learning Environment will form essential learning instruments. It is anticipated that with time e-learning will form a significant part of learning methodology. Further to this there will be visits to manufacturing centres, industry and the use of external speakers and industry experts to enrich the programme delivery. A key element of the teaching and learning process will be the application of IT and software solutions to technological and management problems along with the production of reports. The teaching team will identify appropriate teaching and learning methodology to match the content of the specific module. STRUCTURE AND CONTENT OF THE PROGRAMME (incl. potential interim awards): The University credit framework conforms to the European Credit Transfer System, whereby 5 ECTS credits are equal to 10 CATS credits. Candidates for the Foundation Degree must have achieved 120 ECTS credits (equivalent to 240 CATS credits), of which at least 60 must be at level I. Candidates for the Certificate of Higher Education must have achieved 60 ECTS credits. Full-time mode Students take the following units: Unit code Unit title Credits Level Year 1, Semester 1 and 2 AS10243 Quality Improvement Techniques (V1) 10 C Year 1, Semester 1 AS10293 Introduction to HE Study Skills 5 C AS10241 Mathematics for Engineers 1 (V2) 5 C AS10239 Engineering Science 1 (V1) 5 C AS10244 Materials Technology (V2) 5 C AS10246 CAD/CAM (V2) 5 C Year 1, Semester 2 AS10292 Application of HE Study in the Workplace 5 C Page 7 of 14

AS10242 Mathematics for Engineers 2 (V2) 5 C AS10240 Engineering Science 2 (V2) 5 C AS10245 Manufacturing Principles (V2) 5 C Year 1 & 2 AS20085 Work Based Learning (V4) 10 I Year 2, Semester 1 and 2 AS20247 Hydraulics & Pneumatics (V2) 10 I Year 2, Semester 1 AS20340 Developing Professional Skills 5 I AS20251 Mechanical Principles (V1) 5 I AS20250 Engineering Business Management (V1) 5 I AS20249 Automation, Control & PLCs (V1) 5 I Year 2, Semester 2 AS20341 Introduction to Research Methods 5 I AS20253 Impact of Engineering on the Environment (V1) 5 I AS20252 Health & Safety, Risk Assessment (V1) 5 I AS20254 Robotics (V1) 5 I AS20248 21 st Century Manufacturing (V2) 5 I Part-time mode Students take the following units: Unit code Unit title Credits Level Year 1, Semester 1 AS10293 Introduction to HE Study Skills 5 C AS10241 Mathematics for Engineers 1 (V2) 5 C AS10239 Engineering Science 1 (V1) 5 C AS10244 Materials Technology (V2) 5 C Year 1, Semester 2 AS10292 Application of HE Study in the Workplace 5 C AS10242 Mathematics for Engineers 2 (V2) 5 C AS10240 Engineering Science 2 (V2) 5 C Year 2, Semester 1 and 2 AS10243 Quality Improvement Techniques (V1) 10 C AS20247 Hydraulics & Pneumatics (V2) 10 I Year 2, Semester 1 AS10246 CAD/CAM (V2) 5 C AS20251 Mechanical Principles (V1) 5 I Year 2, Semester 2 AS10245 Manufacturing Principles (V2) 5 C AS20250 Engineering Business Management (V1) 5 I Year 1 & 2 & 3 AS20085 Work Based Learning (V4) 10 I Year 3, Semester 1 and 2 Year 3, Semester 1 Page 8 of 14

AS20252 Health & Safety, Risk Assessment (V1) 5 I AS20249 Automation, Control & PLCs (V1) 5 I AS20248 21 st Century Manufacturing (V2) 5 I AS30240 Developing Professional Skills 5 I Year 3, Semester 2 AS20253 Impact of Engineering on the Environment (V1) 5 I AS20254 Robotics (V1) 5 I AS30241 Introduction to Research Methods 5 I The Personal Development Planning (Work-based Learning) unit will be available as a separate unit for the assessment of a student s progress in the Work-based Learning unit where a student is exiting the programme at the Certificate of Higher Education stage having successfully completed units to the value of 55 credits. DETAILS OF WORK PLACEMENTS/WORK BASED LEARNING/INDUSTRIAL TRAINING/STUDY ABROAD REQUIREMENTS: Work based learning is an integral part of the Foundation Degree in Engineering Systems. A total of 30 credits (25%) of the total programme credits are devoted to units Introduction to HE Study Skills, Application of HE Study in the Workplace, Developing Professional Skills, Introduction to Research Methods and Work Based Learning. As this course is dependant on workplace experience to compliment the learning experience of the student it is envisaged that students will be sponsored in the workplace for a minimum of 100 hours per year. It is possible for the college to support a small number of students continuing from other courses in trying to obtain this work placement experience. DETAILS OF THE SUPPORT AVAILABLE TO STUDENTS (e.g. induction programmes, course information, resources): Support will follow the arrangements made by the teaching institution, and detailed in their Programme Handbook. In particular, the following arrangements will apply: Induction to the teaching institution, its services and facilities, and to the programme Access to the institution s learning resources (Library, IT facilities etc.) Access to the institution s central support services, including counselling, learning support, careers, financial guidance, etc. Information on the units to be studied, including content, delivery and assessment A programme handbook, including details of the full assessment schedule and programme regulations. Personal Tutorial system for the provision of academic and pastoral support In addition, students will receive support from the University of Bath according to the partnership arrangement between the two institutions, including: An initial induction to the Bath and its facilities and learning resources Access to Library resources and IT facilities at the University The allocation of a Link Academic Adviser from the University to the programme University of Bath Student Handbook, including details of the University s regulations Membership of the University of Bath Students Union, including access to BUSU support services and training. Page 9 of 14

ADMISSIONS CRITERIA: Applications are welcomed from candidates: Programme Specification: Foundation Degree in Engineering Systems with a level 3 course such as a National Award/Certificate/Diploma, Progression/Advanced Diploma, GCE A level, Access to Higher Education Course, or a work-based course such as NVQ 3 or Advanced Apprenticeship. Where these qualifications are recognised on the UCAS tariff, candidates should normally have achieved a minimum tariff of 120 points*. without formal qualifications but who have a minimum of two years relevant work experience and are able to demonstrate that they have developed the necessary skills to succeed on the course. *for the Progression/Advanced Diploma 120 UCAS tariff points must be gained from the principal learning element of the qualification. As part of the WVLLN progression agreement, candidates with Advanced Apprenticeship Engineering (gained within the last 5 years) are guaranteed an interview for this programme. All applicants will normally also require at least 4 GCSE passes (at grade C or above), including Maths and English or their level 2 equivalents. Applications may be subject to interview. Where English is not the applicant s first language an IELTS score of 6 or TOEFL score of 580 (paper-based) or 237 (computer-based) or equivalent qualification, will normally be required. SUMMARY OF ASSESSMENT AND PROGRESSION REGULATIONS: The assessment regulations for the programme will be the University of Bath s Assessment and Progression regulations for Foundation Degree programmes. Students are advised to consult the full assessment regulations for the programme, which are provided at http://moodle.bath.ac.uk Please see Appendix for specific regulations relating to the programme. INDICATORS OF QUALITY AND STANDARDS (e.g. professional accreditation): Overview The University is committed to bringing together and re-aligning quality assurance and quality enhancement in its mechanisms for the management of the quality of its programmes. The University s approach to quality management is underpinned by three principles: the reliance on sound pedagogical principles in the design and delivery of learning and teaching; the key role of academic peer review; Page 10 of 14

the importance of the informed student voice, recognising the role of the student as a citizen in the academic community. The University s Quality Assurance Code of Practice is the key reference point that describes the academic processes and principles, roles and responsibilities through which the University develops and implements an effective and efficient quality management framework, assuring itself and external bodies of the quality and standards of its provision. It is also one of the channels of communication via which good practice in learning and teaching is encouraged and disseminated. Governance: Responsibility for the oversight of quality management is located with the following bodies: Each department is required to establish effective mechanisms for overseeing academic development, academic standards and quality of the teaching activities within the Department; Faculty-level Learning, Teaching and Quality Committees are responsible to the Board of Studies for the detailed scrutiny of the academic standards and quality of the Faculty/School/Division's undergraduate and taught postgraduate provision; Faculty/School Research Students Committee is responsible to the Board of Studies for overseeing all matters concerning postgraduate research students; The Board of Studies/Standing Committee is responsible to Senate for all matters relating to the organisation of education, teaching and research in the Faculty/School/Division, including all examination matters. University Learning Teaching and Quality Committee is responsible to Senate for ensuring that the University has a rigorous and responsive quality assurance framework in place; Senate is the supreme academic decision-making body of the University; Further arrangements with partner organisations are defined in collaborative agreements. Review and Monitoring The University s primary mechanisms for review and monitoring of programmes of study are: Internal moderation of assessment, including Boards of Examiners (for taught provision or research degree provision); External examiners reports in which academic peers provide assurance of the quality and standards of provision, but also offer advice on the future development of units and programmes, and contribute views to periodic review of programmes. These reports are scrutinised departmentally and institutionally (for taught provision or research degree provision); Annual monitoring of taught units and programmes draws upon data from Staff Student Liaison Committees, unit evaluation questionnaires and management information on admissions, progression and retention. A report is drawn up by the Director of Studies and is scrutinised at Faculty/School/Division level; Degree Scheme Review is the periodic review undertaken to provide assurance of the standards and continuing validity of a programme, while also making recommendations on its future enhancement and development. These reports are scrutinised at Faculty/School/Division level and reviewed in a annual summary document for institutional and process issues by the Page 11 of 14

University Learning, Teaching and Quality Committee; Programme Specification: Foundation Degree in Engineering Systems Where programmes involve collaborative provision, periodic review of the quality of partnership arrangements is also undertaken; Professional accreditation of programmes brings an additional element of academic peer review; External Review - In the most recent Institutional Audit undertaken in 2008, the QAA indicated that it has confidence in the soundness of the University s current and likely future management of both the academic standards of its awards and the quality of learning opportunities available to students. A judgement of confidence is the highest rate the QAA can give in an institutional audit and indicates that we are judged to possess rigorous, effective and consistent mechanisms for the management of academic standards and the quality of learning opportunities for students. Student Voice Student feedback and engagement with quality management is sought in a number of ways. Students are represented on key institutional committees, including Senate and University Learning, Teaching and Quality Committee. This ensures representation of student input in the development of strategic approaches to quality management; Faculty/School/Division Boards of Study/Standing Committee and their Learning, Teaching and Quality Committees have student representation; Departmental-level student representation; Staff-Student Liaison Committees provide a mechanism for students to provide feedback and for staff to gauge student expectations and report on progress; Students are members of panels for the periodic review of programmes, Degree Scheme Reviews; Evaluation questionnaires for taught provision are issued by academic departments at the level of the unit. This feedback will then be acted upon locally through Staff Student Liaison Committees and annual monitoring of programmes; Feedback mechanisms for research degree students are set out in the Code of Practice for Research Degree Provision; The University undertakes a Student Experience Survey once every three years; The University also participates in the National Student Survey. Staff Development Staff receive support to fulfil their roles in the following ways: Peer support in programme team and departmental meetings; Cross-institutional fora, such as the Directors of Studies Fora and the Placement Tutors Forum provide a mechanism for sharing of good practice; Appraisal of staff is undertaken on an annual basis; Peer observation of teaching is undertaken with a view to improve the quality of teaching through the development of understanding and sharing of experiences of teaching; The University provides training and support for academic staff throughout their career at the University of Bath, including the Teaching Development Programme for probationary staff; Page 12 of 14

The University is also committed to providing reward and recognition of staff engaged in learning and teaching, including promotion criteria that recognise contributions to learning and teaching in the progression of academic staff. The University has also established a number of institutional awards to recognise contributions in Learning and Teaching and offers incentives for new developments and enhancement projects via the Teaching Development Fund; Other institutional mechanisms to support staff in enhancing the quality of learning and teaching include events, such as the annual Learning and Teaching Enhancement seminar and Innovations in Learning and Teaching event. The University has also established annual Good Practice Discussions around an agreed enhancement theme. SOURCES OF OTHER INFORMATION INCLUDING URL OF PROGRAMME SPECIFICATION: Programme Specification URL: http://www.bath.ac.uk/lifelong-learning/foundationdegrees/engineering.html UCAS Website: www.ucas.ac.uk University of Bath Learning Partnership Website: /lwww.bath.ac.uk/lifelong-learning Teaching institution website: www.swindon-college.ac.uk www.bridgwater.ac.uk www.chichester.ac.uk Teaching institution publicity (e.g. prospectus, course leaflet, open days) Programme handbook. Chair of Programmes Approval Panel/Dean Date Page 13 of 14

Appendix Programme Regulations The following programme regulations will apply specifically to the Foundation Degree in Engineering Systems: The Personal Development Planning (Work-based Learning) unit will be available as a separate unit for the assessment of a student s progress in the Work-based Learning unit where a student is exiting the programme at the Certificate of Higher Education stage having successfully completed units to the value of 55 credits. For part-time students Stage 1 of the programme will be complete following years 1 and 2 of study with the progression or exit points being decided at the summer Board of Examiners. For students exiting the programme with a Certificate of Higher Education the following units must be successfully completed: Introduction to HE Study Skills Application of HE Study in the Workplace Mathematics for Engineers 1 & 2 Engineering Science 1& 2 Quality Improvement Techniques Materials Technology Manufacturing Principles CAD/CAM Work done on the Work-based Learning unit will be assessed against the Personal Development Planning (Work-based Learning) unit. Page 14 of 14